NTF President Hails NSC As Alegu Begins World Junior Taekwondo Medal Hunt

The President of the Nigeria Taekwondo Federation, Grand Master Tayo Popoola, has praised the leadership of the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their unwavering support in enabling Nigeria’s rising star, Solomon Alegu, to compete at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

Speaking through the NTF media team, Popoola lauded the Commission’s dynamic and resourceful leadership, emphasising that its proactive approach is instrumental in repositioning sports in the country.

“There is a new drive in our sports, and it is the result of intelligent and proactive leadership that has taken Nigerian sports to the next level,” she remarked.

She highlighted that Alegu’s journey to the global stage was made possible through an initiative by the Commission, which earlier facilitated his participation in the Youth Games in Angola last December. “It was through the National Sports Commission programme that Solomon attended the Youth Games in Angola, and today he has the opportunity to compete at the World Junior Championship,” she added.

Popoola further revealed that the federation has received encouragement and strong backing from the Commission as Alegu and his coach prepare for the championship.

“We reached out to them as our athlete and coach prepared for this World Junior Taekwondo Championship, and we received their support. This serves as great inspiration to us as a federation,” she stated.

Expressing confidence in the young athlete, Popoola recalled Alegu’s impressive performance at the African Junior Championships in Luanda, Angola, where he secured a bronze medal in the -59kg category.

“We believe in his ability, which is why he was selected to compete and showcase the never-say-die spirit of Nigeria,” she said.

She also noted that it has been some time since Nigeria last competed at this level, but expressed optimism about Alegu’s prospects. “It’s been a long time since we participated at this level, but I can assure you that Solomon will make a strong impact from his very first fight,” she added.

Solomon Alegu’s quest for a podium finish in the -59kg category at the World Junior Taekwondo Championship in Uzbekistan begins tomorrow, as he faces Yeun Awenm of the Netherlands. The competition is scheduled to run through Friday, April 17, 2026.